California Fire Information and Animal Evacuation Tips

Our hearts and prayers are with those currently in the path of a destructive swath of fires that are plaguing California. According to the latest report from ABC News, the California wildfires have prompted evacuation orders for approximately 20,000 people. Areas currently affected include Mendocino and Lake counties (River and Ranch Fires), Yosemite National Park and Sierra National Forest (Ferguson Fire), Lassen Volcanic National Park (Whaleback Fire), Santa Clarita, Shasta, Keswick, and the horrific fire around Redding, called the (Carr Fire,) which is being called the ninth most destructive in state history. These are among 17 fires currently burning across the state.

Click on the links below for more information about the fires.

California Wildfires as Seen Up Close by Firefighters, First Responders, and Photojournalists

Get the Latest Updates on California Fires From Google Maps

California Government- State Fire Map and Containment Stats

According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, it’s important to have a Disaster Preparedness Kit ready and a plan for animal evacuation safety.

• Clear “defensible space” around your barns, pastures and property.
• Have an evacuation plan that includes potential safe locations like local fairgrounds, stockyards, and equestrian centers.
• Have a number of different evacuation routes in mind.
• If you don’t own a truck and trailer, make arrangements ahead of time with a local company or neighbor.
• Make sure your neighbors have your contact information.
• Keep copies of vaccination, medical records, registration papers, and photos within your Disaster Preparedness Kit.
• If you must leave your animals, leave in a cleared area with enough hay for 48-72 hours. Do not rely on automatic watering systems that may not work following a loss of power.

 

Livestock Disaster Preparedness Kit

• Hay, feed and water for three days
• Non-nylon leads and halters
• First aid items- Medication and dosing instructions
• Wire cutters and a sharp knife
• Hoof pick
• Leg wraps
• Shovel
• Water buckets
• Plastic trash barrel with a lid
• Portable radio and extra batteries
• Flashlights